But Yorkshire-born Kimberley Walsh found time to keep a vow of her own - to open a breast cancer support centre in Leeds.

Kimberley, from Bradford, was inspired to support the Breast Cancer Haven by her former dance teacher Deana Morgan who was diagnosed with the illness in 2006.

She revealed that Kimberley, who she encouraged to enter TV's Popstars:The Rivals - where the girl band found fame - was on the phone as soon as she heard the bad news.

She also vowed to do anything she could to help.

Kimberley, 26, said: "Deana used to teach me to dance and played a big part in where I am now, so it is very close to my heart. I was desperate to do anything I could to help.

"The Haven opening is the perfect opportunity to do that and to raise awareness so that people realise it is here and that it can help anyone affected by breast cancer.

"Obviously there is a personal attachment for me but with it being in Leeds I want to help as much as I can. It's an absolutely amazing thing that we have the Haven here. There are beautiful therapy rooms and you can come here completely free of charge.

Watch the slideshow of Girls Aloud star Kimberley Walsh in Leeds

"Everything is going really well with the band. We've just released our 19th single and we are number one which is amazing this far down the line.

"Now I'm in the fortunate position to be able to do some good and get the word out about this fantastic place."

Recovering Deana, who has been teaching for almost 30 years, and taught her star pupil as a sixth-former at DM Academy in Bradford, said: "I was diagnosed in October 2006 and I am in remission right now but I've been desperately waiting for it to open.

"Kimberley found out through another student of mine while they were rehearsing together at a dance studio in London.

"The moment she found out she was on the phone and said she would help in any way she could.

"So I rang her earlier in the year and told her this fantastic project was opening. She has been absolutely tremendous.

"She has also helped with fundraising and donated tickets the last time Girls Aloud performed up here in August."

The Haven, in the Gateway building on East Street, was opened after successful ventures in London and Hereford.

It is the only centre of its kind in the north of England and aims to reach out to the 4,000 women a year who are diagnosed with breast cancer in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

It will provide not just a place for people to meet and chat, but will also offer counselling and complementary therapies - all free of charge for patients and their families.

Breast Cancer Haven founder Sara Davenport said: "We opened the first Haven in 2000, believing no one should have to face breast cancer alone.

"It is such a fantastic achievement to be opening the third Haven in Leeds, meaning thousands more women will receive the care and support they need at this difficult time."

For more information about the Haven log on to www.breastcancerhaven.org.uk

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